All four public schools in Malibu will be closed Friday due to the threat of wildfires and power shutoffs.
Malibu Elementary School, Malibu Middle School, Malibu High School, Webster Elementary School and all Malibu Boys & Girls Club locations will be closed, but all public schools in Santa Monica will remain open, said Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District spokesperson Gail Pinsker.
Southern California Edison said power shutoffs would be possible from 9 p.m. Thursday to 9 a.m. Friday in Western Malibu and Point Dume. Shutoffs in those areas could also be possible Sunday evening.
"The forecast for high winds, high temperatures, low humidity and possible (power shutoffs) ... have led us to this decision in the best interest of families and staff," Superintendent Ben Drati and Malibu Pathway director Isaac Burgess wrote in an email to parents. "We have also heard concerns from parents and staff and understand the stress and anxiety that Malibu residents are feeling nearly a year since the Woolsey fire, and feel this is the best decision under the circumstances, for tomorrow."
The email said the district will notify parents by Sunday evening if schools will be closed Monday.
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